Karnataka Bypolls: Big Win For Cong-JD(S) and a Warning for BJP

The victory of the Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) Alliance in the Karnataka bypolls projects several trends. Although it is 'theoretically’ wrong to predict results of upcoming elections based on the bypoll results, we’ll explain why this case may be an exception.

The big takeaway from the bypolls is the possible vote transfer between the Congress and the JD(S). It means that if the alliance and the division of seats between the two parties is managed, then a transfer of votes is possible. BJP is still heavily dependent on the weaknesses and internal conflicts within the united opposition. The Karnataka bypoll results are proof that Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy managed the alliance well.

Yeddyurappa to Retire?

The results could set the tone for the impending retirement of senior BJP leader and former Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa. He managed to help his son win, but he has to pay the price for the two seats that BJP lost by huge margins. Sources say that the central leadership is not happy with him, and the BJP’s performance in the bypolls could pave the way for another state party chief.

Reddy Brothers Lose the Bellari Fort

The Reddy brothers took the brunt of the second biggest loss in the Karnataka bypolls – they failed to retain their stronghold Bellari.

The brothers were considered the biggest forces behind the BJP, and their defeat indicates a gradual change in the mood of the people of Karnataka. The Congress won in Bellari by more than 2 lakh votes.

DK Shivakumar Emerges As the ‘Man Of The Match’

Karnataka bypoll results have come as good news for senior Congress leader DK Shivakumar, who has emerged as the new Chanakya. From IT raids to the bypoll results, Shivakumar is being touted as the ‘man of the match’.

What Is the Challenge Ahead of Congress-JD(S)?

The big challenge for Congress is the race to the Voccaliga leadership, with HD Deve Gowda and DK Shivakumar eyeing the position. The party has to keep in mind that the race does not turn ugly.

Bad News For BJP

Karnataka bypoll results have come as a matter of grave concern for the BJP. The race to 2019 does not look as easy as BJP might have considered it to be.